A delegation of Chinese regional bosses visited Accrington on 15 November to discuss ways they could co-operate and work with businesses in Lancashire.
13 public sector officials from the industrial region of Xinjiang Uygurin North West China visited Regenerate Pennine Lancashire to talk about ways they could utilise local knowledge to develop new technologies and create new working relationships. The party was led by Duan Shengrong, who is Director of Science and Technology for the region.
Regenerate’s Investment Manager Steve Szostak, who met with the delegation, said:
“We want to be hospitable to anyone who has an interest in developing working relationships with businesses in Pennine Lancashire to increase trade and investment opportunities. On behalf of our partners, including the East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, we have set a marker for building business to business relationships with this part of China. After today’s discussion, we will continue to work with them to find collaborative opportunities.”
Delegates seemed particularly interested in how technology support to local manufacturers is used to grow commercially successful products. Business Support & Innovation Manager Hugh Roberts and Business Advisor Brian Corbett also gave the delegation a presentation on how Regenerate’s Lancashire Innovation Network works directly with local businesses to develop new products and machinery to increase business competitiveness, and encourage growth.
Hugh Roberts said:
“We are happy to show potential investors in Lancashire ways in which we are currently helping businesses to grow through the use of innovation and technology. ”
The visit was arranged by Sino-UK, a British based company that promotes exchanges between the people of China and the UK.
The Lancashire Innovation Network is supported by the European Regional Development Fund.
